Wine Fest 2009 in Review

NLC’s 14 th annual Wine Fest was a tremendous success!

This year’s Charity Wine Auction sponsored by NLC and Shallaway ( Newfoundland and Labrador Youth in Chorus) raised over $27,000 for Shallaway’s many projects.

Throughout the Consumer Sampling Sessions, approximately 4,000 guests were given the opportunity to sample over 350 wines from around the world. During the Special Selections Night, consumers had the opportunity to visit NLC’s booth to sample and experience an additional 50 of the world’s greatest wines. Consumers enjoyed a beef carving station, premium cheeses and fine foods.

The Wine Makers Luncheon at the Delta was a sold out event once again this year. The Luncheon featured wines from Mirassou which paired perfectly with each course prepared by Chef Brian Ramsay and his team from the Delta. Guest speaker Rebecca Yates-Campbell from E & J Gallo Winery shared her vast knowledge of wine with the 150 guests.

This year’s classy Gala Dinner took place at The Rooms. The six course meal featured wines from Vega Sicilia and carried a Spanish theme throughout the evening from the décor and food to the music. The exceptional meal was prepared and served by Chef David Kannenberg and his team from Red Oak Catering while guest speaker Ms. Puri Mencebo discussed the history of each wine and the pairing of each wine with the food.

All events throughout Wine Fest week helped to broaden consumers’ wine knowledge. In turn, this created record product demand. Wine Fest store sales increased 20% over last year demonstrating the growing interest in the wine category.

Cheers to all who helped make Wine Fest 2009 such a success. We would also like to thank the thousands of guests and our dedicated NLC staff who make this event possible every year.

Keep a look out for upcoming NLC events including Whiskies of the World festival on November 6, 2009 and A Taste of Australia wine show on February 20, 2010.